In many cases, urban gardening begins organically, but without a supportive policy structure in place, it can be difficult for these programs to take root, thrive and be of maximum and equitable benefit to the whole community.

The concept of raising fresh produce in the middle of a crowded city sounds far fetched to the uninitiated, but over the last few years, the realization of this "far fetched" idea has resonated well with those that live there. The future looks bright for city farming.

Jennifer is one of five teenagers spending her summer days at Philadelphia's Lutheran Settlement House as part of the Teens 4 Good program. Every morning, she arrives ready to work the patch of green in the heart of the city. But every night, she returns to the homeless shelter for women where she's living now.

Unforeseeable weather challenges have always been an inevitable part of the farmer's job. Add to that slim proceeds, institutional interventions, limited space, and soil quality questions, and the future of city farming may be thrown into question.

Last week Just Food and The Sylvia Center brought together over 200 New Yorkers in a series of meals hosted in homes around the city, reminiscent of how families and neighborhoods came together around the table for generations.

Tim Donovan, who calls himself "a farmer and maker," leads the agriculture team at Project Grow, a program of Port City Development Center, an arts and farming organization that works with adults with disabilities.

There are dozens of small local markets and farms. Don't wait for the next Just Food urban farm bike tour to visit these farms. Wake up early on a Saturday, ride the subway to the end of the line and visit a new farmers market!